Glendale, CA – The Armenian American community of Southern California concluded its Armenian Independence Day celebrations with a picnic-festival held at the Glendale High School on Monday May 30th.

The picnic-festival featured well-known singers and performers including Nersik Ispirian, Joseph Krikorian, Paul Baghdadlian, Armenchik, Ara Shahbazian, Ararat, Vatche Hagopian, Sako, Ara Sahagian, and Antoine Bezjian all accompanied by the Knar Band. The singers performed cultural and patriotic songs for a mixed crowd of over 3000.

“We are honored to provide our community a vibrant venue through which they can celebrate our first independence,” said Shant Baboujian, director of the organizing committee. “While celebrating the victories of 1918, we must always continue our work to overcome the many challenges our nation faces today,” explained Baboujian.

Community organizations including the Armenian Relief Society, Javakhk Fund, Shant Student Association, Homenetmen, and ANCA, were available to disseminate organizational information to guests.

The picnic concluded at 6pm with the singing of Aruynod Trosh performed by Nersig Ispirian.
The Armenian Youth Federation celebrates and recognizes the importance of our nation’s victories in establishing an independent Armenia on May 28, 1918. As a result of victories such those of 1918 we are today able to enjoy an independent Republic of Armenia.